Sat Feb 01 02:31:57 IST 2025: ## Kohli’s Ranji Return Cut Short: Dismissed for 6

**New Delhi:** Virat Kohli’s highly anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after a 12-year hiatus ended in disappointment on Day 2. The star batsman was dismissed for a paltry 6 runs by Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, sending a wave of disappointment through the packed crowd that had gathered to witness his comeback.

Kohli, playing for Delhi, received a hero’s welcome, but his innings lasted only 15 balls. After a glorious boundary, he was bowled by an inswinger, leaving Delhi struggling at 86/3, trailing Railways by 155 runs. His early exit fuels concerns about his recent dip in form, following underwhelming performances in recent Test series against New Zealand and Australia.

The match saw a dramatic shift in atmosphere. Initial chants of “Kohli! Kohli!” from the enthusiastic crowd quickly turned to silence and a mass exodus following his dismissal. The huge turnout, with fans lining up for practice sessions and filling the stadium with banners and posters, underscored the hype surrounding his return.

Kohli’s participation is part of the BCCI’s initiative encouraging top Indian players to participate in domestic cricket to strengthen first-class cricket’s role in national team selection. Other stars like Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill have also participated this season.

While Kohli will have another opportunity in Delhi’s second innings, the pressure is on to deliver a significantly improved performance to regain form ahead of India’s crucial Test series against England.

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